The Charm City of Baltimore has gained an unfair reputation over the years as crime-riddled and corrupt, mainly due to the early 2000s hit TV show The Wire. This could not be farther from the truth, as Baltimore is bursting with passion, flavor, and city pride. Famously the birthplace of the Star-Spangled Banner, monuments to the Revolutionary War and beyond dot the skyline.
Head to the harbor
One of the oldest and most well-preserved neighborhoods in town is Fells Point. Stroll the charming cobbled streets of this historic waterfront district, where your path is lit with twinkling lights strung above the sidewalks, and old-timey lampposts line the streets.
Pack your bags, we’re going on an adventure
Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for the best LGBTQ+ travel guides, stories, and more.
There is no shortage of great date spots here; walk around and find the ideal bar or restaurant to suit your needs. Perhaps you’d like to see if you can commune with Edgar Allen Poe’s ghost, as it is rumored he still haunts The Horse You Came In On Saloon, the notorious watering hole where it’s said he had his last drink. Many of the buildings appear unchanged from the 1800s. Small, intricate doorframes and glimmering dark oak bar stools pair well with most establishments’ upscale drinks and refined food.
The Horse You Came In On Saloon
Poe’s last stand 1626 Thames St · Baltimore, MD 21231(410) 327-8111
Website
First, head to the Broadway Pier to snap some cute sunset photos with the shining waters of the harbor in the background. You’ll often find locals with a few fishing lines out, hoping for a few bites from the waters below. Speaking of seafood, Baltimore is famous for it.
Slainte Irish Pub and Restaurant
Irish fare and friendliness 1700 Thames St · Baltimore, MD 21231(410) 563-6600
Website
Make your way back down the pier, and directly across from it, you’ll find the Slainte Irish Pub and Restaurant. Do yourself a favor and order the fish and chips. The flakey crust, crispy fries, and tangy slaw will have you coming back for more again and again. They offer other Irish classics like giant pints of Guinness and traditional Irish breakfasts, with the bar and kitchen always on point. If Guinness is a little heavy for you, try the Empress 75, their twist on a French 75 made with violet-colored Empress Gin and prosecco.
Upscale stay overlooking the pier
Across the street, sitting parallel to the pier, is the upscale 5-star hotel Sagamore Pendry Baltimore. Inside, you’ll experience exemplary service both as a hotel guest and as someone who simply wishes to enjoy the stunning Sagamore Pendry pool bar. This outdoor patio bar overlooks the harbor and feels a world away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Considered a hidden gem, it’s a popular spot for locals and travelers to sip wine by the water.
Sagamore Pendry Baltimore
Upscale waterfront stay 1715 Thames St · Baltimore, MD 21231(443) 552-1400
Website
Sagamore Pendry Pool Bar
Stunning poolside cocktail bar 1715 Thames St · Baltimore, MD 21231(443) 552-1400
Website
Listen to the city
As you continue through the winding streets, you will likely hear live music spilling out several doorways, inviting you to experience the local music scene. A few doors down from Slainte, the Cat’s Eye Pub offers live music every night. Since 1975, this cozy bar has offered folks a laid-back spot to enjoy a cold beer and friendly conversation. Pair that with a lovely outdoor patio with views of the harbor; this is the ideal spot to end your night with a bang.
Baltimore is a city of passion, with locals and transplants defending its character. They cite the incredible food and robust creative community as major components of its charm. Fells Point exemplifies a refined and rustic atmosphere, making it a wonderful neighborhood to explore and inevitably fall in love with.
Don't forget to share:
